Start Well
In the Beginning God… Genesis 1:1
How important is it to start well? A good start is critical in a 100-meter race, often decided by hundredths of a second. But a fast start is only one aspect of starting well. One must also begin in the right place and at the right time. It may be possible to overcome a poor start in a race, but only with exceptional talent. However, starting at the wrong place or at the wrong time will result in disqualification.
In The Sound of Music, the song “Do Re Mi” begins with “Let’s start at the very beginning. A very good place to start.” It is a simple concept, and yet profound. It applies to many things, like reading a book or watching a movie. Not starting at the beginning can be frustrating when assembling furniture or children’s toys. I’m confident that we can all think of things that are much easier to do if we start at the beginning.
Building a life of faith in God is no exception. Unless we have the proper foundation, it is impossible to develop our life in such a way that it will withstand the inevitable storms and earthquakes. It is wise to begin with an understanding of the four most important words that ever were written: “In the beginning God.” We will be confronted by things that are beyond our comprehension or at least beyond our ability to provide definitive proof. By faith, we construct our lives on God’s word.
Is the Science Settled?
Faith empowers us to see that the universe was created and beautifully coordinated by the power of God’s words! He spoke and the invisible realm gave birth to all that is seen. Hebrews 11:3 (TPT)
It would be contradictory to claim that we have faith in God but not accept that creation was formed at his command. Some scientists will claim the Creation Account in Genesis is a myth. But when we receive the first four words by faith, we can then believe that the rest of the account is accurate.
A phrase we have often heard lately: “The Science Is Settled.” A thousand years ago, the consensus was that the sun and stars revolved around the earth. Some even believed the earth was flat. Should this world last another thousand years, what “settled science” will be mocked and ridiculed? Ultimately, we will see that there is no conflict between science and the word of God. “Can you solve the mysteries of God? Can you discover everything about the Almighty? Job 11:7 (NLT)
Hebrews says, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Many things in the Bible seem to the ordinary human mind as impossibilities because they defy reality as they know it. A few examples are when the sun stood still for Joshua and the army of Israel or Elisha and the floating ax head. How did Noah get all those animals on the ark?
I would not even attempt to give you a scientific description for any of them, but because I believe by faith in those first four words of Genesis, no further explanation is needed. We receive truth by faith. “The opposite of faith is not doubt, it’s certainty.” – Anne Lamott.
One Foundation
For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:11 (NLT)
You must have a solid foundation to build something that will endure for eternity. Many people did not get off to a good start in life for one reason or another. Some people were not taught the truth about God. Others ignored the fact of God’s word.
You may be well down the road of life and unable to start again, but you can find the starting point, the true foundation where you can rebuild your life. Pride sometimes prevents us from starting over and building a life on Christ, the Solid Rock.
Sadly, we always start with obstacles, good and bad. In Philippians 3:1-6, Paul lists his pedigree and his accomplishments, and yet he goes on to say they’re all garbage. We come to Christ with our hurts, prejudices, burdens, and sins. It is impossible to build without dealing with the obstacles first, and yet people try.
People come to Christ for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, it is desperation, even the fear of hell, but it seems they have no interest in going forward in building a life in Christ. Although they may honor Christ with their words, they do not take the steps necessary to build a life on the solid foundation of Christ.
Clear Away the Rubble
I will show you what it’s like when someone comes to me, listens to my teaching, and then follows it. It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built. Luke 6:47–48 (NLT)
In 1895, Claus Spreckels set out to build the tallest building in San Francisco. At great expense, they dug deeper than anyone had before until they hit bedrock. Critics, and even some friends, derided him for spending the extra money to dig so deep. However, eleven years later, a catastrophic earthquake devastated the city. Guess what? Mr. Spreckel’s building was still standing. In fact, it still stands today.
We will not build lives that can withstand floodwaters and earthquakes if we do not dig deep and clear away everything that comes between ourselves and Christ. The title of an old hymn says it all: “Nothing between my soul, and my Savior.”
How do we clear away everything that stands between us and the foundation? Through surrender and repentance. It can be hard to let go, but it is necessary. It will be worth it when we build lives that withstand every onslaught of the enemy. Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. Hebrews 12:28 (NLT)
Steve Ekeroth